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Let’s get something straight: Hot chocolate and hot cocoa are not the same thing. Hot chocolate, also known as drinking chocolate, is made with real chocolate; hot cocoa is a watered-down version based on cocoa powder. You’ll understand the difference once you savor this indulgent recipe for basic hot chocolate. Then try your hand at any of these riffs.
Chile Hot Chocolate. Although it seems like a lot, the half teaspoon of cayenne in this recipe is just enough to add a kick of spice without overwhelming the chocolate.
Double Anise Hot Chocolate. The combination of the slightly bitter star anise with the sweet, licorice-y anise seed gives this recipe an addictive flavor.
Amaretto Hot Chocolate. Almonds and chocolate are a delicious pairing in candy, so it makes perfect sense that spiking hot chocolate with sweet, almond-flavored amaretto liqueur would be tasty, too.
Five-Spice Hot Chocolate. Chinese Five-Spice Powder is an intense mix most often used in savory meat dishes. Whisked into hot chocolate with an orange-scented rum from Martinique, it makes for an unexpected—and delicious—fusion.
Calvados-Tarragon Hot Chocolate. Dried tarragon may be the last thing that crosses your mind when you think “hot chocolate,” but mix it with the French apple-flavored brandy Calvados, and you’ve got a lovely, anise-y, apple-y hot chocolate.
Peppermint Hot Chocolate. We infused this hot chocolate with crushed peppermint candies to bring a little holiday cheer to the rest of the year.
Caramel Hot Chocolate. Remember Rolos? If you’re a devotee of that classic caramel-chocolate candy, then this caramel hot chocolate should do you right.
Almond Butter Hot Chocolate. Sure, almond butter takes the richness up a notch, but your health isn’t something you should stop and consider while you’re sipping hot chocolate.
Banana Hot Chocolate. Speaking of health, this list is heavy on the chocolate, liqueur, and candy and light on the fruit. This recipe blends in a whole banana—just like a smoothie, only chocolaty!
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Coconut Hot Chocolate. Switching out the cream for coconut milk makes for a transporting drink that’s something like a warm, chocolate daiquiri.
